EMPLOYERS AND UNIONS BREAK STRIKE IMPASSE

The threat of the second nationwide council strike in two years may be receding following positive talks this week ...

The threat of the second nationwide council strike in two years may be receding following positive talks this week between employers and unions.

Both sides left this week's negotiations in positive mood after the Employers' Organisation and the three major local government unions explored solutions to the current impasse.

While the two sides remain far apart formally - with the EO offering 7% over three years and the unions claiming a single-year deal worth over 4% with more support for the lowest paid - a compromise looks possible.

GMB national secretary for public services Brian Stratton said: 'It was a very good exercise in moving the position in an exploratory sense.'

The EO did not comment, but a source said: 'Things are not looking bleak.'

The housing and communities secretary’s parliamentary private secretary has responded to criticism of the government’s approach to council funding by saying now is a “critical time” for local government to influence next year’s comprehensive spending review.

Labour party members have reported the Labour group on Wirral MBC to the party leadership for alleged misconduct after a councillor accused activists of intimidation and abuse in his resignation letter and warned councillors across Merseyside are also facing hostility and the threat of de-selection.

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